THE Penang state athletes can now use the upgraded running track at the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) Sports and Recreational Complex in Jalan Betek, Bukit Mertajam for training to prepare for Sukma (Malaysia Games) in June this year.
State Youth and Sports Committee chairman Soon Lip Chee said it was timely that the upgrading works were completed on Dec 19, 2021 for the state athletes to train for Sukma (Malaysia Games) in June. The upgrading works began on Oct 11 last year.
“Apart from running track, the upgrading works included the drainage system and purchase of some equipment such as steeplechase, shot-putt, pole vault box and many others.
“The completion of this upgrading works is timely in view of the upcoming Sukma.
“So, the state athletes can now undergo their training session at this track to prepare themselves for the competition,” Soon told reporters during his site visit to the sports complex today.
Also present was MBSP mayor Datuk Azhar Arshad.
Soon said he was also glad that the upgrading project, costing RM1.65 million, was completed within the stipulated time.
“This project is urgently needed considering that the running track here has not been upgraded for the past 15 years.
“Even before this, there were a few cases where the state athletes got themselves injured during training sessions at this track.
“So, it is also for our athletes’ convenience and safety to undergo their training session on a proper track,” he added.
On a separate matter, Soon said the state government also has a plan to upgrade the dilapidated football field near the running track.
“We will call for a Request for Proposal (RFP) as early as next month,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad